The GRE General Test is a standardized test designed and regulated by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). GRE is a prerequisite for various technical master's degrees in countries like the USA.
Students from non-technical backgrounds, find GRE and apodous examination to crack. For many candidates with a good overall profile, an average GRE score blunts their prospects of securing admittance to an ostensible university. Therefore, many institutions are now discontinuing the need to take the GRE. Almost 70-80% of the universities in the US are offering programs without the GRE requirement.
The US is an abode to numerous top-ranked universities offering MS specializations without GRE scores.
Here are the top 9 US universities and colleges that don't require GRE
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the top universities in the world for computer science and engineering does not request GRE scores. As of 2022, it is ranked #1 in the QS Global University Rankings. MIT is a highly selective institute with an acceptance rate of 7%.
The top courses at MIT that do not require GRE scores are: MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics, MS in Computational Science and Engineering, MS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, etc
Purdue University
Purdue University is another reputed university offering Master's in the USA without GRE. It is a public research university in Indiana that consistently ranks among the top 20 graduate schools in the USA. This is one of the best universities that offer MS in the USA without the GRE.
The top courses at Purdue that do not require GRE scores are: MS in Computer Science, MS in Ecological Sciences and Engineering, MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering, etc
University of Dayton
The University of Dayton is a national research university located in Ohio that has made the GRE scores optional for all applicants. Applicants can consider this university as an option if they wish to study Master's in the USA without GRE.
The top courses at the University of Dayton that do not require GRE scores are MS in Aerospace Engineering, MS in Civil Engineering, MS in Renewable and Clean Energy, etc.
California State University
California State University not only provides great study opportunities but also waives off the GRE scores for the applicants. UG, PG, Doctoral courses are provided in a broad range of disciplines - arts, computer sciences, social sciences, etc.
The top courses at the California State University that do not require GRE scores are MS in Chemistry, MS in Civil Engineering, MS in Mechanical Engineering, etc.
Wichita State University
Wichita State University is highly ranked amongst US universities for its Engineering programs. The university offers international students more than 100 undergraduate courses in a wide variety of disciplines.
The top courses at the Wichita State University that do not require GRE scores are MS in Biomedical Engineering, MS in Computer Science, MS in Mechanical Engineering, etc.
Boston University
Boston University is a private university and research institution offering more than 300 majors and minors across several fields including sciences, arts, medicine, business, humanities, education, and social studies.
The top courses at the Boston University that do not require GRE scores are: MS in Robotics and Autonomous System, MS in Artificial Intelligence, MS in Applied Data Analytics, MS in Bioinformatics, etc
San Jose State University
San Jose State University is prominent for its research and technology-oriented courses. For applicants looking only for IELTS accepting universities, San Jose University can be on the list.
The programs that do not have GRE requirements at the San José State University are: MS in Aerospace Engineering, MS in Civil Engineering, MS in Data Analytics, etc
Northeastern University
Northeastern University is an acclaimed private university located in Boston offering admission in the US without GRE. Some of the most popular courses offered are computer sciences, chemical engineering, econometrics, mechanical engineering, quantitative economics, etc.
The programs that do not have GRE requirements at the Northeastern University are: MS in Industrial Engineering, MS in Environmental Engineering, MS in Computer Systems Engineering, etc
George Mason University
George Mason University is a public research university famous for its research programs, extensively in the areas of law and economics. Other popular courses offered by the institute are management, psychology, biological sciences, information technology, etc.
The programs that do not have GRE requirements at the George Mason University are: MS in Civil & Infrastructure Engineering, MS in Health Informatics, MS in Applied and Engineering Physics, etc.
FAQs:
For MS in the USA, is GRE a requirement?
There exist a number of top universities in USA for MS. For entry into an MS (Master of Science) program in the USA, different universities and departments have different GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requirements. While some colleges may still demand the GRE as part of the application process, a growing number of universities are adopting a GRE-optional or GRE-flexible policy, particularly in light of the COVID-19 epidemic. As a result, it is critical to examine the exact requirements of each university and program you are interested in to discover whether the GRE is required.
Can we pursue an MS in USA without GRE and IELTS?
Yes, it is feasible to pursue MS in USA without GRE or IELTS tests. While certain colleges may need these exams as a part of the admissions procedure, without GRE universities in USA provide alternate admissions routes, such as eliminating the GRE or accepting different English proficiency exams like the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Furthermore, additional criteria, viz. prior academic success, professional experience, or obtaining a degree in an English-speaking nation, may apply to certain USA universities without GRE before these tests can be waived. It is best to conduct research and directly contact the preferred colleges to learn about their specific admission criteria and potential alternatives.
What is the minimal GRE score needed for MS in the United States?
In the USA, a GRE score of 310 is regarded as acceptable for MS. It typically suffices to gain admission into the majority of engineering or computer science programs offered in the nation. The program average is what counts; if it is between 315 and 320, then you should score higher than this to improve your chances of being admitted.
Is the GRE exempt in 2024?
Whether the GRE will be waived for Spring 2024 or Fall 2024 varies on individual university decisions and rules, while many colleges who skipped the GRE during the epidemic have continued to do so for future admittance cycles.
Which are the leading universities in USA without GRE for MS?
Despite the fact that GRE requirements can differ from program to program, some of the top universities in USA without GRE for MS are:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Purdue University
- Boston University
- Northeastern University
- Stevens Institute of Technology
- George Mason University
- The University of Dayton
- The University of Cincinnati
- The University of Florida
- University of Bridgeport, among many others.
Which are the best universities for MS in Business Analytics in USA without GRE?
The top universities for MS in Business Analytics in USA without GRE are New York University, Johns Hopkins University, The University of Chicago, George Washington University, Northwestern University, and others.
Which are the top-tier universities for MS in Computer Science in USA without GRE?
For admission to their Master's programs in Computer Science, numerous universities in USA do not require the GRE (Graduate Record Examination).
Among the top-tier universities in USA for MS in Computer Science without GRE are:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Texas at Austin
- Cornell University
- University of Washington
- University of California, San Diego
For the most up-to-date information on the above mentioned Masters in USA without GRE colleges' application criteria, visiting their official websites or contacting their admissions departments is recommended.
Without the GRE, how can universities like Purdue University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Boston University evaluate applicants?
Universities without GRE in USA such as Purdue, MIT, and Boston University can examine applicants holistically, taking into account variables other than standardized test scores. These could include:
- Academic Standing: US universities without GRE will evaluate candidates' undergraduate transcripts, GPA, and coursework difficulty to determine their academic aptitude and accomplishments.
- Recommendation Letters: Letters of Recommendation from professors, mentors, or employers can provide insight on a candidate's morals, skills, and potential.
- SOP: An essay or personal statement outlining the applicant's academic preferences, professional objectives, and reasons for applying to the programme in question is frequently submitted by applicants.
- Work Experience: For some programs, a candidate's knowledge and suitability may be determined by their achievements and relevant job experience.
- Extracurricular Activities: Participation in extracurricular pursuits, volunteer work, or research initiatives can show a candidate's commitment and versatility.
- Interviews: Applicants' personalities, interests, and objectives may be better understood by institutions through interviews.
By utilizing a variety of evaluation techniques, universities can acquire a comprehensive understanding of candidates and make informed admission decisions.
What academic programs are available at universities that do not require the GRE?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination), a common standardized test for entrance to graduate programs is no longer required for admission to several academic programs at some universities in USA. The trend of removing the GRE requirement has gained traction in recent years as institutions recognise its limits in determining a candidate's prospects for success in their chosen sector.
GRE requirements can vary annually and between universities, so always double-check the current admissions standards for the programs you're interested in. As of 2021, many academic programs routinely waive the GRE requirement, however be sure to verify with universities without GRE in USA for the most recent information.
- Master of Public Administration (MPA) or Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) and some other education-related graduate programs
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in the arts and creative fields
- Master of Public Health (MPH) and some other health-related programs
- Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Information Science (MIS)
- Master of Communication/Media Studies
Although some programs waive the GRE, additional application documents viz. recommendation letters, SOP, academic records, and relevant work experience are frequently required.
To stay abreast on the most recent admissions requirements, contact universities and programs directly. Educational patterns and applicant demographics may cause policy changes.
Are there any restrictions on the courses that don't need the GRE?
Different colleges have different requirements for their graduate programs, and some are now doing away with the GRE. While some colleges still require the GRE for particular programs, others don't.
The policies of each institution's various programs or departments often determine whether or not the GRE is required. The GRE scores may not significantly predict a student's likelihood of success in their area, according to certain programs, or they may not significantly improve the admissions process.
Usually, non-GRE programs have their own unique alternative entry standards, like:
- Strong academic standing
- Work experience
- Recommendation Letters
- SOP or Personal Statement
- Portfolio or writing sample
- Interview
Admission requirements at universities without GRE in USA are subject to change, so verify whether the GRE is still required for the graduate programs you're interested in. For the most up-to-date information, visit the official university websites or contact the admissions offices.
Are there any substitute examinations that American universities that don't require the GRE accept?
For admittance to their graduate programs, some colleges in USA are beginning to waive the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requirement. Instead, US universities without GRE may accept scores from other standardized tests or offer alternatives for candidates unwilling to submit their GRE results. However, remember that admissions standards might vary over time and that each university may have its own unique requirements.
Some common GRE alternatives that several universities without GRE in USA may accept include:
- GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): Typically used for graduate business programs viz. MBA programs.
- LSAT (Law School Admission Test): For enrollment in law schools and similar courses.
- MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): A prerequisite for entrance to medical schools and associated health professions programmes.
- GRE Subject Tests: Scores from the GRE Subject Test, which evaluates candidates' subject knowledge, may be accepted by several universities.
- TOEFL or IELTS: For international students whose primary language is not English.
- Work Experience: For applicants with substantial job experience, several universities may skip the GRE requirement.
- Academic Success: GRE scores may also be substituted for exceptionally strong undergraduate academic performance.
Visit the institution's official website or get in touch with the admissions office for the most recent entrance standards and alternative examinations that are approved. Institutional and departmental policies may vary.
What financial aid programs are available to students applying to US universities without GRE?
The GRE is designed primarily for graduate students, not undergraduates. However, there are financial aid alternatives for US university students even for GRE-free graduate programs. Mentioned below are a few common sources of assistance offered by universities without GRE in USA.
- Merit-Based Scholarships
- Need-Based Financial Aid
- Institutional Grants
- Private Scholarships
- Assistantships and Fellowships
- Employer Tuition Assistance
- Federal Student Loans
Availability and conditions for financial help vary by university and program. Researching the precise alternatives provided by your preferred colleges is thus, essential. Remember that financial aid programs and regulations are subject to change, so stay abreast by contacting the university's financial aid office.
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